Vernon L. Leonard died Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, at the age of 87. A native of Depew, OK, he came to Gilroy 65 years ago. He loved to farm and raise animals. Many generations of students that attended Rucker School will remember “that old farmer” who would have his horse and dogs do tricks while they were at recess.
Vernon was preceded in death by his wife Gladys L. Leonard in 1997. He is survived by four children; sons Jerry (Susan) Leonard of Gilroy, Claude (Alice) Leonard of ID, Bobby Joe Leonard of Gilroy and daughter Judy (Donald) Zander of Gilroy; grandchildren; Todd (Kris) Leonard of Santa Nella, Shannon Leonard Flackman of Gilroy, Scott (Jackie) Leonard of Los Banos, Jonathon (Cathie) Leonard of WA, David (Jennifer) Zander of Hollister, Brett Zander, Robert Leonard, Rya Leonard of Gilroy, and Sarah Leonard of TN; as well as 28 great grandchildren.
A visitation will begin 10 am Friday Sept. 18, 2009, at Habing Family Funeral Home followed by an 11:30 A.M. graveside service at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park.
